HLAA Introduces Spokesperson and National Walk4Hearing Business Chair

Bethesda, MD: The Hearing Loss Association of America® is delighted to introduce its spokesperson and National Walk4Hearing Business Chair, Christopher J. Artinian, former president and chief executive officer of Morton’s Restaurant Group, Inc. The Artinian family was the subject of Sound and Fury which documented their struggle over the decision to provide a cochlear implant for their son born with hearing loss. Mr. Artinian was the keynote speaker at the association’s Convention 2011 where he drove home the point that hearing loss affects the whole family.

In his role as spokesperson and National Walk4Hearing Business Chair, Mr. Artinian will collaborate with HLAA to further the organization’s mission, increasing awareness about hearing loss, a public health issue third in line after heart disease and arthritis. He will be officially introduced to the HLAA’s membership at the Opening Session of Convention 2012 on Thursday, June 21.

Mr. Artinian stated, “I grew up around hearing loss and have seen so many of the challenges ranging from the emotions, education, relationships, technology, and many other related things that impact people with hearing loss. I am proud to be the spokesperson as well as the National Walk4Hearing Business Chair for the Hearing Loss Association of America. We have a son who was born with a profound hearing loss. My wife and I were given the gift of knowledge, education, and resources to help us make the best choices for our son. The HLAA has long supported the notion of making an educated choice - for that I am very proud to help this organization continue to make an impact in helping people with hearing loss improve their quality of life.”

Mr. Artinian is recognized for his role in building Morton’s The Steakhouse into a niche leader and the largest company-owned fine-dining restaurant brand in the world. He was integral in leading and completing a successful sale of Morton’s which recently closed on February 1, 2012. Currently, Mr. Artinian remains deeply passionate and involved in the restaurant industry. He is currently serving in a consulting role and has been invited to share his insight and perspective on restaurants and hospitality.

Mr. Artinian resides in Winnetka, IL, with his wife and their five children. Mr. Artinian attended Villanova University, and is a longtime supporter of the March of Dimes, Rotary Club, Hearing Loss Association of America and various charities related to children with cochlear implants. He is also a member of the Young Presidents Organization, Chicago chapter.

About Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)
HLAA opens the world of communication to people with hearing loss through information, education, support, and advocacy. HLAA’s Walk4Hearing is the largest walk of its kind in the country that raises awareness and helps to eradicate the stigma associated with hearing loss. Walks are held in multiple cities across the country. Since 2006, over 26,000 walkers have stepped up and helped raise funds for programs and services for people with hearing loss and their families. In addition to the Walk4Hearing, HLAA publishes Hearing Loss Magazine, holds annual Conventions (Convention 2012, Providence, RI, June 21 – 24), and has an extensive network of chapters and state organizations. The headquarters is located at 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1200, Bethesda, MD 20814. Phone: 301.657.2248.